PSIA reports LGU checkpoints blocking agricultural supplies

The Philippine Seed Industry Association (PSIA) reported that local government units in Ilocos Norte and parts of the Davao region are blocking agricultural supplies at checkpoints, despite guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

PSIA President Mary Ann P. Sayoc emphasized the importance of seeds for sustained food production during the COVID-19 pandemic and urged unrestricted movement of seed to ensure food security.

The Department of Agriculture had issued memorandum circulars allowing agriculture and seed companies to continue operations, but some LGUs are implementing inconsistent policies.